When Rocky Abalsamo’s wife of 55 years died, a huge part of him died, too.
To make sure that the love of his life was never lonesome, he would hold vigil by her grave site at St. Joseph Cemetery in West Roxbury all day, every day. He rarely eats or drinks, weathering all conditions and temperatures.
Now, after over 20 years since the passing of his beautiful Julia, Rocky ‘Roque’ continues to sit next to his precious, after being buried in the plot next to hers. At last, the loving couple will finally reunite.
Rocky died on Janaury 22 at Stonehedge Health Care Center in West Roxbury after several months of declining health. He was 97.
His devotion to his wife first received attention in 2000, when Boston Globe reported on Rocky’s ongoing vigil to his wife of 55 years. At that time, he had already been watching over his wife for seven years. Julia died in the year 1993 due to complications from a heart surgery.
Torn up about her passing, Rocky built his life around her. Every morning, he would walk to the cemetery, unfold his lawn chair next to Julia’s plot, greet her then sit beside her, without walking away for food or water, or even to go to the restroom, until the cemetery closes. Before heading home, he would also sprinkle crumbs on Julia’s grave site so that the animals would keep her company when he leaves.
“She is part of me, so here I am whole,” he said in 2000. “Being here makes me feel better. Not good, but better. I do it for Julita, and for myself.”
Over time, Rocky’s personal act touched dozens of people, who would stop by to give the man blankets, extra clothes, meals and scarves, as well as to help decorate Julia’s grave with flags and stuffed animals.
Those who sat with Rocky also heard his story of his undying romance.
Until 2005, he maintained his daily visits to the cemetery, until a death in the family encouraged him to spend more time with his living loved ones. He still continued to visit his wife regularly, until falling ill last year in July.
Now, after 20 years of waiting, Rocky and his love are side by side for eternity.
What a touching love story!
